Airbag frame apparatus

ABSTRACT

An apparatus includes a frame configured for supporting a vehicle airbag device. Support assemblies are movably connected to the frame. Each support assembly includes an airbag connecting member engaging a spring member. Pressing the airbag connecting member towards the frame compresses the spring member. An electrical switch assembly is connected to the frame. The electrical switch assembly includes at least one push button electrical switch for connecting to an electrical circuit. Pressing at least one support assembly a predetermined distance lowers a portion of the at least one support assembly towards the frame for urging a vehicle airbag device capable of being connected to a connecting end of each airbag connecting member, against at least one switch in the electrical switch assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/033,499 filed on Feb. 23, 2011, which in turn claims priority fromU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/307,349, filed on Feb.23, 2010, both incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The embodiments relate to air bag devices, and in particular, to air bagframes and systems.

2. Description of the Related Art

Airbags are used as safety equipment in vehicles, such as automobilesand trucks. Airbags are mounted in various places in vehicles, such asdashboards and steering wheels. The mounting of airbags in steeringwheels protects a driver from contacting the hard surface of a steeringwheel in an accident. The steering wheel mounted airbag can makeplacement of other vehicle features typically mounted to a steeringwheel challenging.

SUMMARY

One embodiment of the invention comprises an apparatus including a frameconfigured for supporting a vehicle airbag device. Support assembliesare movably connected to the frame. Each support assembly includes anairbag connecting member engaging a spring member. Pressing the airbagconnecting member towards the frame compresses the spring member. Anelectrical switch assembly is connected to the frame. The electricalswitch assembly includes at least one push button electrical switch forconnecting to an electrical circuit. Pressing at least one supportassembly a predetermined distance lowers a portion of the at least onesupport assembly towards the frame for urging a vehicle airbag devicecapable of being connected to a connecting end of each airbag connectingmember, against at least one switch in the electrical switch assembly.

Another embodiment of the invention comprises a system including avehicle airbag assembly. A frame supports the vehicle airbag assembly. Asupport assembly is movably connected to the frame and the vehicleairbag assembly. The support assembly comprises an airbag couplingmember engaging at least one spring member. Pressing the airbag couplingmember towards the frame compresses the spring member. An electricalswitch assembly is coupled to the frame. The electrical switch assemblycomprises at least one push button electrical switch for coupling to anelectrical circuit. Pressing the support assembly a predetermineddistance lowers a portion of the support assembly towards the frame forurging the vehicle airbag assembly against the at least one push buttonelectrical switch in the electrical switch assembly.

Yet another embodiment of the invention comprises a system including avehicle airbag assembly. A frame is configured for supporting thevehicle airbag assembly and is removably coupled to a steering wheel. Aplurality of airbag support assemblies movably coupled to the frame.Each support assembly comprises an airbag coupling member engaging aspring member. Pressing the airbag coupling member towards the framecompresses the spring member. An electrical horn switch assembly iscoupled to the frame. Pressing at least one support assembly apredetermined distance lowers a portion of at least one support assemblytowards the frame for urging a vehicle airbag device capable of beingcoupled to a coupling end of each airbag coupling member, against atleast one switch in the electrical horn switch assembly for sounding avehicle horn.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description, which, when taken inconjunction with the drawings, illustrate by way of example theprinciples of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way oflimitation, in the Figures of the accompanying drawings and in whichlike reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an airbag frame device coupledwith a steering wheel according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of an airbag frame deviceaccording to one embodiment of the invention

FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the airbag frame device shown inFIG. 2;

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the airbag frame device shown in FIG.2;

FIG. 5 illustrates a left side view of the airbag frame device shown inFIG. 2;

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the airbag frame device shown in FIG.2;

FIG. 7 illustrates an isolated side view of a support assembly coupledto an airbag frame plate according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a side perspective view of the airbag frame deviceshown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 illustrates an electrical connector shown connected with aharness holder according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates an isolated view of an electrical connectoraccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates an isolated view of a wiring harness holder for anelectrical connector according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a top perspective view of a switch according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of the switch shown in FIG.12;

FIG. 14 illustrates a top perspective view of a support assembly coupledwith a frame attachment portion for an airbag frame apparatus accordingto one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15A illustrates a side perspective view of a support assemblycoupled with a frame coupler for an airbag frame apparatus according toone embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15B illustrates a side perspective isolated view of a frame couplerfor a support assembly of an airbag frame apparatus according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an isolated support assemblyfor an airbag frame apparatus according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 17A illustrates a top perspective view of an isolated airbagsupport frame according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 17B illustrates an exploded view of an airbag support frame andsupport assemblies according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 18 illustrates a front perspective view of an airbag frame devicecoupled with an airbag assembly and steering wheel column/housingaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates a side perspective view of an airbag frame devicecoupled with an airbag assembly and steering wheel column/housingaccording to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates an isolated view of an electrical switch assemblyfor an airbag frame according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 21 illustrates an isolated side view of the electrical switchassembly of FIG. 20 showing an exploded view of switches according toone embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 22 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an airbag frame deviceshowing a locking/fastening portion of a support assembly for an airbagframe plate according to another embodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 23 illustrates an isolated view of a locking/fastening portion of asupport assembly for an airbag frame device according to one embodimentof the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is made for the purpose of illustrating thegeneral principles of the invention and is not meant to limit theinventive concepts claimed herein. Further, particular featuresdescribed herein can be used in combination with other describedfeatures in each of the various possible combinations and permutations.Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms are to be giventheir broadest possible interpretation including meanings implied fromthe specification as well as meanings understood by those skilled in theart and/or as defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc.

The description may disclose several preferred embodiments of an airbagframe apparatus and system, as well as operation and/or component partsthereof While the following description will be described in terms ofairbag frame systems and devices for clarity and to place the inventionin context, it should be kept in mind that the teachings herein may havebroad application to all types of systems, devices and applications.

One embodiment of the invention provides an airbag frame support device(apparatus) including a frame and support assemblies, wherein the frameis configured for supporting a vehicle airbag and mounting on thevehicle steering wheel. The support assemblies are coupled to the frame,wherein each support assembly includes a spring member. An electricalswitch assembly comprising one or more electrical switches is alsocoupled to the frame, wherein the electrical switch assembly provideselectrical connections to electrical components such as a horn.

Applying pressure on a support assembly for compressing the supportassembly a predetermined distance lowers, and urges, at least a portionof the spring member of the support assembly towards a switch in theelectrical switch assembly. The switch closes an electrical circuit thatoperates an electrical component. Removing pressure from the supportassembly allows the spring member to decompress and move away from theswitch, wherein the switch opens the electrical circuit.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an airbag frame support device11 coupled with a steering wheel 10 of a vehicle according to oneembodiment of the invention. In one example, the airbag frame supportdevice 11 is removably mounted/fastened to a central portion of thesteering wheel 10 of a vehicle, such as an automobile, truck, etc.

FIG. 2 illustrates a top perspective view of an airbag frame supportdevice 11, according to one embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment of the invention, the airbag frame support device 11 includesa frame plate 13 and multiple airbag support assemblies 12, each supportassembly including a spring member 15 (FIG. 7). The airbag frame supportdevice 11 further includes an electrical assembly comprising switches 19each having a switch assembly tab 19A, and electrical wires 31. As usedherein, a spring member can comprise an elastic object (e.g., acompression spring, coiled spring, leaf spring), and may be made frommaterials that can store mechanical energy, as those skilled in the artwill recognize.

In one embodiment, the tab 19A is situated a distance above the frameplate 13 to provide clearance allowing passage of electrical wires 31underneath the tab 19A and to provide wire management. Each tab 19Amaintains wires 31 passing thereunder, thereby protecting the electricalwire 31 from forces and vibrations from movement of a vehicle.

In one example, the switches 19 are push or pressure switches using aflexible member, such as a spring or equivalent compressible component.Each switch 19 may comprise a normally open, momentary switch. In oneexample, the airbag frame support device 11 includes multiple switches19. Each switch 19 includes legs 19C (FIG. 13) that allow snapping theswitch into corresponding holes in the plate 13.

FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of the airbag frame support device 11,and FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the airbag frame support device 11.In one embodiment, the frame support device 11 further includes a wiringharness assembly 16. The wiring harness assembly 16 includes a wiringharness holder 18 and an electrical connector 17, wherein the electricalconnector 17 is removably received and maintained by the wiring harnessholder 18. In one embodiment, the electrical connector 17 of the wiringharness assembly 16 is configured for connecting to a correspondingelectrical horn connector.

The wiring harness 16 is coupled to frame plate 13 via a wiring harnessholder tab 18D (FIG. 8). The electrical wires 31, switches 19 and anelectrical connector 17 (FIG. 9) are coupled to a wiring harnessassembly 16. In one example the wiring harness holder 18 snaps intoopenings in the frame plate 13.

In one embodiment, the harness holder 18 includes an insertion tip 18Band a tab 18C. In one example, the insertion tip 18B and the tab 18C areinserted through corresponding apertures of the frame plate 13 to snapthe harness holder 18 onto the frame plate 13. In one embodiment of theinvention, the tab 18C prevents the harness holder 18 from rotating onthe frame plate 13.

FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the airbag frame supportdevice 11. As illustrated, wherein tabs 18D of the holder 18 rest on abottom surface of the frame plate 13 for additional support andprevention of movement of the wiring harness assembly 16.

In one embodiment, the support assemblies 12 and the switches 19 andwiring harness assembly 16 are removably attached (snapped) on the frameplate 13 using corresponding openings/through-holes on the frame plate13. The support assemblies and switches may be moved to other locationson the frame plate 13 where there are holes for snapping them onto theframe plate 13. Further, in one example, a support assembly 12 may bereplaced as needed without replacing all of the support assemblies 12.

In one embodiment, the frame plate 13 can be made of a metal with acentral aperture about 74 mm in radius. In other embodiment, the centralaperture may have a range between about 65 mm to 85 mm.

In one embodiment, each support assembly 12 may include an airbagcoupling member 12S (FIG. 7) such as a screw or bolt type element madeof a metal, metal alloy, etc. In one example, each support assembly 12may comprise zinc plated steel.

FIG. 5 illustrates a left side view of the airbag frame support device11. FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the airbag frame support device11. In one example, the support assemblies 12 are symmetricallypositioned on the frame plate 13 to align with corresponding attachmentportions of an airbag assembly 30 (FIG. 18). In another example, thesupport assemblies 12 may be asymmetrically positioned on the frameplate 13 as needed to align with corresponding attachment portions of anairbag assembly 30. In one example, the position, size and shape of thevarious openings and through-holes on the frame plate 13 may be adaptedas desired based on, for example, attachment points to an airbagassembly, size of a steering wheel unit, thickness of the attachedelements, etc.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a support assembly 12 coupled to theframe plate 13, according to one embodiment of the invention. In oneembodiment, each support assembly 12 further comprises a bracket 15Aincluding an aperture that surrounds the coupling member 12S. Eachbracket 15A includes legs 12C (FIG. 3) that snap into correspondingopenings in the frame plate 13. Each bracket 15A is held in place on theplate 13 by snapping legs 12C of the bracket 15A in correspondingopenings in the plate 13.

Each coupling member 12S includes a flange 15C at a distance below thetip of the coupling member 12S, wherein the compression member 15 isdisposed between the flange 15C and a bottom wall 15B of the bracket 15A(FIG. 14), concentric with the coupling member 12S on the top surface ofthe plate 13. A lock type spring/clip 14 is snapped on a lower portionof the coupling member 12S under the bottom surface of the plate 13.Each coupling member 12S is held in place in an opening of the plate 13wherein the compression member 15 is in compression between the flange15C and the bottom wall 15B. In some embodiments a portion of the bottomwall 15B protrudes through the frame plate 13. In other embodiments, thebottom wall 15B is flush with the frame plate 13.

As such, the coupling member 12S of the support assembly 12 is held inplace in the bracket (surround) 15A against the frame plate 13 with acompression member 15 (e.g., a spring), wherein the compression member15 normally urges the clip 14 against the bottom side of the frame plate13.

In one embodiment, the annular bracket 15A may comprise a plasticsleeve, a metal or metal alloy sleeve, etc. that is snapped to the frameplate 13 through an opening or through-hole. The frame plate 13essentially “floats” on the support assemblies 12 between the snap orlock type spring/clips 14 and bottom walls 15B of the brackets 15A. Thefloating aspect is partly a matter of perception until the airbag framedevice 11 is fully installed on a steering wheel, wherein the frameplate 13 is fixed to the steering wheel armature, and the supportassemblies 12 and airbag assembly 30 (see FIG. 18) actually float.

In one example, the distance/clearance between the frame plate 13 and aflange 15C on the support assembly 12 is about 9.5 mm when thecompression member 15 is uncompressed, and about 7.5 mm when thecompression member 15 is fully compressed. Other examples may have otherranges of compression/expansion for the compression member 15, such as7.5 mm-11.5 mm uncompressed, and 5 mm-9.5 mm compressed. In one example,a force of 3-4.5 lbs compresses the compression member 15 enough for theswitch 19 to close. It should be noted that the combined compressionmembers 15 accumulate the force necessary to sound a horn by a user whenthe external portion of an air bag assembly 30 is pressed by a user inthe center. Therefore, the selection of the compression members 15cannot be excessive which will cause a user to have to exert too muchforce to sound the horn. Therefore, some travel of the support assemblyin the frame plate occurs when a vehicle is driven over a road thatincludes at least some bumps or unevenness. If the travel is reduced byincreasing the strength of the compression members 15, use of a vehiclehorn becomes a strain for users. Therefore, based on the necessity ofmaintaining ease of use for the horn, in one embodiment of the inventiona damping element 23 (FIG. 22) is added to prevent/reduce buzz, squeakand rattle (BSR) caused by the travel of the support assembly.

As illustrated in the bottom perspective view of the airbag framesupport device 11 in FIG. 8, each tab 18D rests on a bottom surface ofthe frame plate 13 for additional support and prevention of movement ofthe wiring harness assembly 16.

FIG. 9 illustrates a view of the wiring harness assembly 16 includingthe wiring harness holder 18 and the electrical connector 17 accordingto one embodiment of the invention. In one example, the wiring harnessholder 18 is expandable so that the electrical connector 17 may besnapped into place within the wiring harness holder 18. In this example,the electrical connector 17 and wiring harness holder 18 compriseseparate components. In another embodiment, the electrical connector 17and wiring harness holder 18 are integrated into a single component.

FIG. 10 illustrates an isolated view of the electrical connector 17according to one embodiment of the invention. In one example, theelectrical connector 17 includes inlet and outlet openings 17A forreceiving electrical connections such as via wires. In one example, theelectrical connector 17A includes metal pins attached to wires, whichconnect to the switches 19 in parallel. In another example, theelectrical connector is attached to the frame plate 13 via a connectoradapter.

FIG. 11 illustrates an isolated view of a wiring harness holder 18 forthe electrical connector 17 according to one embodiment of theinvention. In one example the legs 18A are used to snap the electricalconnector 17 into the wiring harness holder 18 so that the electricalconnector is held by compression force. The insertion tip 18B and tab18C are sized for insertion through corresponding apertures of the frameplate 13. In this example, tab 18D rests on a bottom surface of theframe plate 13 for additional support and prevention of movement of thewiring harness assembly 16 for wire management.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top perspective view of a switch 19 according toone embodiment of the invention. In one example, the switch 19 includesa switch body held by a switch attachment/cover element that includesswitch assembly tab 19A. In another example the switch 19 is anintegrated body that includes the switch and switch assembly tab 19A. Itshould be noted that a push switch can become damaged by excessivedepression over time. In one example, the switch attachment/coverprovides curved walls that provide a positive stop or limiter thatprevents the switch button or plunger from being overly depressed fromcontact with the air bag assembly 30 (FIG. 18), which in turn provides alonger working product life expectancy for the switch 19 and limitsdamage to the inner workings of the switch (e.g., switch contact damage,spring damage, etc.). In one example, the body of switch 19 is made ofplastic, metal, or similar strength material. In another example, theswitch 19 may be other types of equivalent momentary switches.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of the switch 19. In oneexample, the switch assembly tab 19A includes a projection that mayreside slightly above the frame plate 13 providing a bridge for theelectrical wires 31 to pass underneath when the projection is forced tocontact the frame plate 13 when the switch 19 is attached into openingsin the frame plate 13, which also a provides wire management function.

FIG. 14 illustrates a top perspective view of a support assembly 12coupled with a frame attachment portion 15A according to one embodimentof the invention. As noted, the bracket 15A has a bottom wall 15Bpinched between the frame plate 13 and the compression member 15. Inthis example, the arrangement allows proper functioning of the airbagframe device 11 in normal (i.e., airbag in a ready and un-deployed), aswell as in airbag deployment modes. In this example, the airbag framedevice 11 is robust, and simple to install.

FIG. 15A illustrates a side perspective view of the support assembly 12coupled with the holder 15A according to one embodiment of theinvention. In one example, tab 12B extends from the holder 15A andfunctions as a bridge to hold the electrical wires 31 underneath againstthe top face of the plate 13 (FIG. 2). The legs 12C snap intocorrespondingly sized openings in the frame plate 13.

FIG. 15B illustrates a top isolated perspective view of the holder 15Aaccording to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the holder15A includes an opening slot for the support assembly 12.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an isolated support assembly12 according to one embodiment of the invention. In this example, thedistance between a snap or lock type spring/clip 14 and the flange 15Con the coupling member 12S is about 10.7 mm when the compression member15 is not compressed, and about 8.7 mm when the compression member 15 isfully compressed. Each type spring/clip 14 is snapped into a notch 12Non the airbag coupling member 12S. It should be noted that the internalgaps between the components, such as the support assembly 12, the frameplate 13, the compression member 15, flange 15C and the switch 19control the size of external gaps of a steering wheel and external airbag and horn covering elements. Therefore, in one embodiment of theinvention the gaps are limited by controlling the distance needed tomove the support assembly to contact the switch 19 for causing the hornto function. Additionally, in cases where the frame plate may becomebent (e.g., from excessive force), it is important for the gapdimensions to be maintained to prevent the horn from being sounded dueforces from normal driving conditions (e.g., traveling over a bumpyroad, potholes, etc.).

FIG. 17A illustrates a top perspective view of an isolated frame plate13 according to one embodiment of the invention. In one example, theframe plate 13 includes a variety of openings and through-holes ofvarious shapes and sizes for fitment of corresponding elements of theairbag frame device 11.

FIG. 17B illustrates a bottom view of the frame plate 13 and explodedview of the support assemblies 12 according to one embodiment of theinvention. As illustrated, the support assemblies 12 fit within thesprings 15 and are placed through openings of the frame plate 13. In oneexample, the support assemblies are locked/fastened in place with theclip 14.

Referring back to FIGS. 5 and 6, the plate 13 includes a pair ofsteering wheel housing connectors 9 at its peripheries. Each connector 9includes an extension 8 and an opening 7. The opening 7 allows attachingthe plate 13 to a steering wheel housing via fasteners (e.g.,bolts/nuts, sockets, pins, etc.). In one embodiment, each extension 8 isangled form the frame plate between about 70°-80°. In anotherembodiment, each opening 7 comprises a slot that ranges from about 2.2mm-9.0 mm in length for fitment in a steering wheel housing. In oneembodiment, each extension 8 includes score tabs for bending theextension 8 to provide adaptability in fitment within a steeringhousing.

FIG. 18 illustrates a front perspective view of the airbag frame device11 coupled with an airbag assembly 30, wherein the plate 13 is andmounted on a steering wheel housing 10 according to one embodiment ofthe invention. The airbag assembly 30 is fixedly attached to thecoupling members 12S. When compressed, the airbag assembly 30 can movetowards and away from the frame plate 13, riding the coupling members12S through the annular holders 15A into and out of the frame plate 13.The coupling members 12S move/slide axially along the center of theholder 15A essentially perpendicular/transverse to the surface of theplanar frame plate 13. FIG. 18 shows the airbag assembly 30 while notunder a compressive force, such the underside of the airbag frame 30 isnot in contact with the switches 19.

FIG. 19 illustrates a side perspective view of an airbag frame device 11coupled with an airbag assembly 30 of FIG. 18, wherein the frame plate13 is mounted on the steering wheel housing 10 according to oneembodiment of the invention. As in FIG. 18, the airbag assembly 30 isfixedly attached to the coupling members 12S.

FIG. 19 shows the airbag assembly 30 pressed down (compressed) towardsthe airbag frame device 11, wherein the compression members 15 arefurther compressed, allowing the coupling members 12S to slide down intorespective openings in the frame plate 13. This allows the underside ofthe airbag assembly 30 to move towards the frame plate 13 and come intocontact with the switches 19, closing an electrical circuit via theelectrical wires 31 and wiring harness assembly 16 that may operate, forexample, an electrical horn device for the vehicle. FIG. 19 shows theunderside of the airbag assembly 30 pushed against one or more switched19 by a compressive force, wherein said one or more switches closes oneor more corresponding electrical circuits.

When pressure is removed from the airbag assembly 30, the springs 15decompress and urge the airbag assembly 30 away from the frame plate 13,opening the switches 19, as in FIG. 18. As such, the airbag assembly 30can move towards and away from the frame plate 13 along the dashedarrows shown in FIG. 19, riding the coupling members 12S into and out ofthe frame plate 13. The frame plate 13 remains in fixed relationshipwith the steering housing 10, while the airbag assembly 30 fixed to thecoupling members 12S moves transversely in relation to the frame 13 asone or more springs 15 are compressed and decompressed and one or morecoupling members 12S transversely slide into and out of the frame plate13 (i.e., through annular openings in the corresponding brackets 15A andthe frame 13).

FIG. 20 illustrates an isolated view of an electrical switch assemblyfor the airbag frame device 11 according to one embodiment of theinvention. In one example, the switches 19 are attached to theelectrical wires 31 and the electrical connector 17 via known methods,such as crimping, soldering, pressure attachment, etc. In one example, atwo wire system is used where the switches 19 maintain the separation ofthe two wires when in the open state and connect the two wires in theclosed state to complete the electrical circuit.

FIG. 21 illustrates an isolated side view of the electrical switchassembly of FIG. 20 showing an exploded view of switches 19 according toone embodiment of the invention. In one example, the switches 19 includea compression member, such as a spring that is used to return the switchto the open state when pressure is removed from the switch 19 (e.g.,when pressure is removed from the airbag assembly 30). In one example,the switches 19 are formed by a switch housing/cover and an attachmentportion, which may be separate components or integrated as a singlecomponent.

FIG. 22 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an airbag frame device11 showing a locking/fastening portion 22 of a support assembly 12according to another embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, thelocking/fastening portion 22 is a bolt/nut device that engages athreaded bolt 12S. In this embodiment, the clip 14 and notch 12N on themember 12S are not required (FIG. 16).

In one example, the locking/fastening portion 22 (FIG. 22) is made of ametal, metal alloy, hardened plastic, etc. On another example, thelocking/fastening portion 22 is coupled with a washer 24 and a dampeningelement 23. In one embodiment, the washer 24 is a separate component andcomprises a metal washer. In another embodiment, the washer 24 isintegrated with the locking/fastening portion 22 (e.g., a flanged nutdevice).

In one embodiment, each dampening element 23 may comprise one or morecompressible components, such as a rubber or similar material washers,disposed concentric with each coupling member 12S between acorresponding washer 24 and the frame plate 13. Each dampening element23 prevents contact between the washer 23 and the frame plate 13. Thedampening element 23 reduces/eliminates noise, vibrations, hum, rattles,etc. (e.g., BSR) that may otherwise be caused by impact between thewasher 24 and the frame plate 13 (or bracket 15A and clip 14; or bracket15A and washer 24) due to vibration of the steering column of a movingvehicle in which an airbag frame support device 11 (and airbag assembly30) is mounted or movement of the components within the frame plate 13,according to embodiments of the invention. In other embodiments,equivalent dampening elements may include: rubber or similar materialdisposed on the frame plate 13 between the washer 24 and the frame plate13, dampening coatings (e.g., flowed over the locking/fastening portion22, etc. It should be noted that the washer 23 may be the same size,larger or smaller in diameter than the washer 24 and thelocking/fastening portion 22.

FIG. 23 illustrates an isolated view of a locking/fastening portion 22of a support assembly 12 for an airbag frame device 11 according to oneembodiment of the invention. The dampening element 23 may also beutilized with the embodiment of device 11 shown in FIG. 8 wherein thedampening washer 23 may be disposed concentric with element 12S betweenthe clip 14 and the frame plate 13.

In the description above, numerous specific details are set forth.However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may bepracticed without these specific details. For example, well-knownequivalent components and elements may be substituted in place of thosedescribed herein, and similarly, well-known equivalent techniques may besubstituted in place of the particular techniques disclosed. In otherinstances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown indetail to avoid obscuring the understanding of this description.

Reference in the specification to “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,”“some embodiments,” or “other embodiments” means that a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with theembodiments is included in at least some embodiments, but notnecessarily all embodiments. The various appearances of “an embodiment,”“one embodiment,” or “some embodiments” are not necessarily allreferring to the same embodiments. If the specification states acomponent, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, or“could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, orcharacteristic is not required to be included. If the specification orclaim refers to “a” or “an” element, that does not mean there is onlyone of the element. If the specification or claims refer to “anadditional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one ofthe additional element.

While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in theaccompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments aremerely illustrative of and not restrictive on the broad invention, andthat this invention not be limited to the specific constructions andarrangements shown and described, since various other modifications mayoccur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.

1. An apparatus for supporting a vehicle airbag device, comprising: aframe having a plurality of openings for slidably receiving a pluralityof airbag support assemblies wherein each support assembly comprises: anairbag coupling member slidably disposed in a corresponding one of saidopenings in the frame for maintaining a spring member between the frameand the airbag device, the airbag coupling member having a coupling endprotruding from a first side of the frame facing the airbag device forcoupling to the airbag device, wherein pressing the airbag devicetowards the frame compresses the spring member therebetween; the airbagcoupling member having a locking member at a locking end of the airbagcoupling member protruding from a second side of the frame opposing saidfirst side, for slidably maintaining the frame on the airbag couplingmember between the locking member and the airbag device; a bracketdisposed at said corresponding opening on the frame for receiving theairbag coupling member such that the airbag coupling member is movablerelative to the bracket; a vibration reduction member between the frameand the locking member; and an electrical switch assembly coupled to theframe, wherein the electrical switch assembly comprises at least onepush button electrical switch for coupling to an electrical circuit. 2.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the frame includes an essentiallyplanar portion having said openings, each opening for slidably receivinga portion of an airbag coupling member of a corresponding supportassembly, transverse to said planar portion of the frame, such thatpressing the airbag device towards the frame compresses the springmember and causes at least a portion of said airbag coupling member toslide into the opening for lowering a portion of the airbag devicetowards the frame; and the frame comprises a steering wheel couplingportion configured for coupling the frame to a steering wheel.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein each bracket includes an opening forreceiving a corresponding coupling member, and an attachment portion forcoupling with the frame.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein: for eachlocking member, said locking end protruding from the second side of theframe is from said coupling end of the airbag coupling member; thespring member of each support assembly is disposed concentric with saidportion of the airbag coupling member protruding from said first side ofthe frame facing the airbag device, to normally urge the locking memberagainst said second side of the frame as the spring member urges theairbag device away from said first side of the frame, wherein pressingthe airbag device towards the frame with sufficient force compresses thespring member to lower the airbag device towards the frame.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 4, wherein the spring member of each support assemblyis disposed in said bracket concentric with said portion of the airbagcoupling member protruding from said first side of the frame facing theairbag device.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein each bracket furthercomprises a wire management mechanism comprising a tab for maintainingwiring for the switching assembly against the frame.
 7. The apparatus ofclaim 4, wherein each switch further comprises a wire managementmechanism comprising a tab for maintaining wiring for the switchingassembly against the frame.
 8. The apparatus of claim 4, furthercomprising a connecter configured for coupling to an electrical circuitfor powering a horn, such that pressing the airbag device coupled to acoupling end of each airbag coupling member a predetermined distanceslidably lowers a portion of at least one airbag coupling member into acorresponding opening in the frame for urging the coupled airbag deviceagainst at least one switch in the electrical switch assembly to closethe horn circuit and sound the horn, and wherein ceasing said pressureallows the spring member to expand and urge the airbag device away fromthe switch to open the switch of the horn circuit to cease sounding thehorn.
 9. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein: in each support assembly,the vibration reduction member is coupled between the second side of theframe and the airbag coupling member to prevent direct contact betweenthe frame and a portion of the airbag coupling member.
 10. The apparatusof claim 9, wherein the vibration reduction member comprises an elasticwasher disposed concentric with the airbag coupling member between thesecond side of the frame and the locking member to dampen vibrationbetween the airbag coupling member and the frame.
 11. The apparatus ofclaim 9, wherein each bracket has a bottom wall a portion of whichprotrudes through a corresponding frame opening to the second side ofthe frame as the vibration reduction member.
 12. The apparatus of claim4, wherein the steering wheel coupling portion comprises a pair ofsteering wheel connectors at peripheries of the frame, wherein eachsteering wheel connector includes an extension member in a transverseorientation to a plane of the frame.
 13. A system comprising: a vehicleairbag element; a frame for supporting the vehicle airbag element; oneor more support assemblies, each support assembly slidably coupled to anopening in the frame, wherein each support assembly comprises an airbagcoupling member having a coupling end engaged to the airbag element, theairbag coupling member maintaining a spring member between the frame andthe airbag device such that pressing the airbag element towards theframe compresses the spring member therebetween; a vibration reductionmember between the frame and a portion of an airbag coupling member; andan electrical switch assembly coupled to the frame, wherein theelectrical switch assembly comprises at least one push button electricalswitch for coupling to an electrical circuit, wherein pressing theairbag element a predetermined distance lowers a portion of at least oneof the airbag coupling members towards the frame for urging the airbagelement against at least one push button electrical switch in theelectrical switch assembly.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein: theframe includes an essentially planar portion having said openings forslidably receiving a portion of an airbag coupling member of a supportassembly transverse to said planar portion of the frame, such thatpressing the airbag element towards the frame compresses the springmember and causes at least a portion of said airbag coupling member toslide into the opening for lowering a portion of the airbag elementtowards the frame; and the frame comprises a steering wheel couplingportion configured for coupling the frame to a steering wheel.
 15. Thesystem of claim 14, wherein each of the support assemblies furthercomprises a bracket disposed on a corresponding opening on the frame forsupporting the airbag coupling member, wherein the bracket includes anopening for slidably receiving an airbag coupling member, and anattachment portion for coupling with the frame.
 16. The system of claim15, wherein: each support assembly further comprises a locking member ata locking end of the airbag coupling member of that support assembly,distal from said coupling end of the airbag coupling member, forslidably maintaining the frame on the airbag coupling member between thelocking member and the airbag element; and the spring member of the saidsupport assembly is disposed concentric with the airbag coupling memberin said bracket to normally urge the locking member against said secondside of the frame as the spring member urges the airbag device away fromsaid first side of the frame, such that pressing the airbag devicetowards the frame with sufficient force compresses the spring member tolower the airbag device towards the frame, wherein the bracket comprisesan annular holder partially surrounding the airbag coupling member. 17.(canceled)
 18. (canceled)
 19. (canceled)
 20. (canceled)
 21. The systemof claim 16, wherein in each support assembly, the vibration reductionmember is between the second side of the frame and the airbag couplingmember to prevent direct contact between the frame and a portion of thelocking member.
 22. The system of claim 16, wherein each bracket has abottom wall a portion of which protrudes through a corresponding frameopening to the second side of the frame as the vibration reductionmember.
 23. The system of claim 16, wherein the vibration reductionmember comprises an elastic washer disposed concentric with the airbagcoupling member between the second side of the frame and the lockingmember to dampen vibration between the locking member and the frame. 24.An apparatus, comprising: an airbag device; an essentially planar framefor supporting the airbag device, the frame having a plurality ofopenings for slidably receiving a plurality of airbag support assembliestransverse to the frame, the frame further comprising a steering wheelcoupling portion configured for coupling the frame to a steering wheel,wherein each support assembly comprises: an airbag coupling memberslidably disposed in a corresponding one of said openings in the framefor maintaining a spring member between the frame and the airbag device,the airbag coupling member having a coupling end protruding from a firstside of the frame facing the airbag device for coupling to the airbagdevice, wherein pressing the airbag device towards the frame compressesthe spring member therebetween; the airbag coupling member having alocking member at a locking end of the airbag coupling member protrudingfrom a second side of the frame opposing said first side, for slidablymaintaining the frame on the airbag coupling member between the lockingmember and the airbag device; a bracket disposed at said correspondingopening on the frame for receiving the airbag coupling member such thatthe airbag coupling member is movable relative to the bracket, whereinthe bracket comprises an annular holder partially surrounding the airbagcoupling member, and the bracket has a bottom wall a portion of whichprotrudes through a corresponding frame opening to the second side ofthe frame; wherein the spring member of each support assembly isdisposed in said bracket concentric with said portion of the airbagcoupling member protruding from said first side of the frame facing theairbag device; a vibration reduction member between the frame and thelocking member to prevent direct contact between the frame and a portionof the locking member; and an electrical switch assembly coupled to theframe, wherein the electrical switch assembly comprises at least onepush button electrical switch for coupling to an electrical circuit.